How Much Caffeine is in a Cup of Coffee?

At Bean Sculpt, we know how important it is for coffee lovers to understand what’s in their cup, especially when it comes to caffeine. Whether you’re an early riser looking for a morning boost or someone winding down with a decaf in the evening, knowing your caffeine intake is key to making the right choice for your day.

Caffeine Content by Brewing Method

The amount of caffeine in your coffee depends on how it’s prepared. Here’s a breakdown of common methods:

• Drip or Filter Coffee: Around 95 mg of caffeine in an 8-ounce (240 ml) cup.
• Espresso: A single shot (30 ml) contains about 63 mg of caffeine.
• Instant Coffee: Typically, 62 mg per 8-ounce serving.
• Decaffeinated Coffee: Not entirely caffeine-free, with about 2 mg per cup.

These values are averages, and the exact caffeine content can vary depending on the type of beans, roast, and brewing time.

Why Does It Vary?

Several factors influence caffeine levels:

1. Bean Type: Arabica beans, known for their nuanced flavours, naturally have less caffeine than the stronger-tasting Robusta.
2. Roast Level: Light roasts retain slightly more caffeine than dark roasts due to less roasting time.
3. Brewing Method: Longer brewing times, like those used for cold brew, extract more caffeine.
4. Serving Size: Naturally, larger cups or double shots will deliver more caffeine.

How Much is Too Much?

In the UK, the NHS advises limiting caffeine intake to 400 mg per day for most adults – that’s about four cups of brewed coffee. For pregnant individuals, the recommended limit drops to 200 mg daily, roughly two cups.

Decaf: A Great Alternative

If you love coffee but want to reduce your caffeine intake, decaffeinated options like our Carved Molasses provide a rich, flavourful experience without keeping you awake at night. Contrary to common myths, decaf is not completely caffeine-free but contains only a trace amount – perfect for an evening treat.

Insights from James Hoffmann

If you’re into specialty coffee, you might already know James Hoffmann, a respected voice in the coffee industry based right here in the UK. In his exploration of caffeine content, he highlights how even similar drinks can have widely varying caffeine levels, influenced by factors such as grind size and water temperature. For an in-depth look, check out his video, "I Did Caffeine Analysis", where he dives into caffeine myths and realities.

Take Control of Your Caffeine

At Bean Sculpt, we’re dedicated to crafting coffees that effortlessly fit into your daily routine, whether you need an energising start to your morning or a smooth brew to wind down in the evening. By understanding the caffeine content in your coffee, you can make choices that perfectly match your moment, whether it’s about finding the right boost or simply enjoying the flavour.

Explore our range of coffees online and discover the perfect brew for your routine.